Casemiro says there is a difference in mentality between Real Madrid and Manchester United, where the latter has to “adjust and grow” to achieve the same levels as the Spanish giants.
The midfielder of Brazil joined United from Madrid in August 2022, but, after initially impressed, has a pale imitation of the player who won three La Ligas and five Champions League titles in the Santiago Bernabéu.
He started as United yesterday with 1-0 lost to Tottenham, a result that the men of Ruben Amorim in 15th place in the Premier League late in the middle of a point of six wins in their last 15 games in all competitions.
Defeat in North Londen.#Murnc || #Totmun
– Manchester United (@manutd) February 16, 2025
Asked if the mentality was the same at United as in Madrid, the 32-year-old said as: “Of course there is a difference. Real Madrid has ingrained a very strong winning mentality in its history. The culture is all about reaching greatness, being the best.
“Manchester United also has a rich history and incredible fans, but Real Madrid has been built to consistently win Champions League titles. At United there is an unmistakable drive, but it takes a little more time to return to that level of European dominance. It is about adjusting and growing to reach those heights again. However, dedication and professionalism are the same. “
Casemiro still hopes at the final season with a trophy
United remains in the Europa League and FA Cup, a title they won last season, and Casemiro says that trophies are still the ambition this year.
‘No, it is not [the same club it was 20 years ago] But it is still a big club, “he added.” A transition is like each team at certain points in their history.
“When I arrived, I saw the passion of the fans, and that was something that touched me deeply. We may not be in the same period of dominance as in previous decades, but Manchester United has always been a team that fights and stands for something. It is a big challenge and we continue to fight for trophies, just as we did last season. “
Brazilian not surprised by the Madrid comeback
Madrid is still in this season’s Champions League and have a 3-2 advantage compared to Manchester City prior to the second stage of their knock-out phase Playoff match in the Bernabéu on Wednesday evening.
The men of Carlo Ancelotti followed 2-1 last week on Etihad before two late goals reverse the draw.
Casemiro said: ‘It was no surprise to me. Madrid almost always does that, and everyone knows the history of this team and which they are capable of.
“Madrid always plays until the end and never gives up. Even when I lost 2-1, I knew that there was still much of the game left to play. And that is with City and a great coach like [Pep] Guardiola. But they did it.
“Now the return to the Bernabéu will be with a great result of the 3-2. But it will not be easy. They are strong with Guardiola, but the Bernabéu on those Champions League evenings is very special. I wish all the happiness in the world to my former teammates, not only because of my rivalry with the city, but especially for Madrid. Hopefully they get the knockout phases. “
